Okocha downplays BBC award

The former PSG talisman confessed to www.nigeriasports.com via telephone that winning the Caf player of the year award will crown his decade long illustrious career.

“Being the fourth journalist to contact me today, I must confess that this award gives me a better hope of winning the Caf award” he explained.

Stressing the importance of the continental honour, Okocha, who has been in excellent form for English Premiership club Bolton Wanderers in the 2002 season, and the current soccer season says he will relish another glorious day in Tunis.

“That will ultimately be the high point of my career and a fulfilling one I would say”

“Wining in the month of a nation’s cup will also make it a big boost for me and my country” the Barclaycard premiership player of the month of November added

Okocha carted home the BBC award ahead of Juventus' Ghanaian international Stephen Appiah and Samuel Eto'o, the Cameroon striker who plays for Spanish side Real Mallorca.

"I'd got to the stage where I thought that I'd never win an award in my career, so I'm very happy to be recognised in this way." He had told BBC website when informed of his victory.